Fried Chicken Recipe

All-purpose flour: A versatile flour used for coating the tofu strips.

Unsweetened almond milk: A dairy-free milk alternative that helps the coating adhere to the tofu.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a slight tang and helps curdle the almond milk.

Breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch to the coating.

Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor.

Garlic powder: Provides a rich garlic flavor.

Onion powder: Adds a savory onion taste.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.

Dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal flavor.

Dried thyme: Provides an earthy, slightly minty taste.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.

Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, nutty flavor and is often used in vegan cooking.

Extra-firm tofu: The main ingredient, providing a firm texture that holds up well when fried.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the tofu strips until golden and crispy.

When preparing the tofu, ensure it is thoroughly pressed to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture when frying. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes. This will help the tofu absorb the almond milk mixture and flour mixture more effectively, resulting in a better coating and a more satisfying crunch.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with chickpea flour: Chickpea flour provides a similar texture and is gluten-free, adding a slight nutty flavor.

• unsweetened almond milk - Substitute with unsweetened soy milk: Soy milk has a similar consistency and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides the necessary acidity to curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk-like effect.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier texture for the coating.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat while maintaining a similar flavor profile.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions offer a fresh and slightly sweet flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can enhance the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and a slightly different heat profile.

• dried oregano - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano provides a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.

• dried thyme - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme offers a more potent and fragrant flavor.

• smoked paprika - Substitute with liquid smoke: Liquid smoke can provide a similar smoky flavor with just a few drops.

• nutritional yeast - Substitute with ground flaxseeds: Ground flaxseeds add a nutty flavor and can help with binding.

• extra-firm tofu - Substitute with seitan: Seitan has a meatier texture and can better mimic the consistency of chicken.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and adds a subtle flavor that complements the dish.

• Allow the fried tofu strips to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled fried tofu strips in an airtight container. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to maintain crispiness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the fried tofu strips on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Transfer the frozen tofu strips to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, reheat the frozen tofu strips in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving as it can make the fried tofu lose its crispiness.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the leftover fried tofu strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a quicker method, use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the fried tofu strips in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the fried tofu strips on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking for desired warmth.

• To maintain the crispy texture, you can also reheat the fried tofu strips in a skillet. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu strips and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are hot and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the flour, spices, and nutritional yeast.

• Small bowl: This is for mixing the almond milk and apple cider vinegar.

• Whisk: Use this to mix the almond milk and apple cider vinegar thoroughly.

• Tofu press: This helps to remove excess water from the tofu, making it firmer for frying.

• Knife: Use this to cut the pressed tofu into strips.

• Cutting board: This provides a stable surface for cutting the tofu.

• Frying pan: Use this to heat the oil and fry the tofu strips.

• Tongs: These are useful for turning the tofu strips while frying to ensure they cook evenly.

• Paper towels: Use these to drain the excess oil from the fried tofu strips.

• Plate: Place the fried tofu strips on this after draining them on paper towels.

• Measuring cups: Use these to measure out the flour, almond milk, and breadcrumbs.

• Measuring spoons: These are for measuring the spices and apple cider vinegar.

• Slotted spoon: This can be used to remove the tofu strips from the oil if you prefer not to use tongs.

Prepare the flour mixture in advance: Combine all dry ingredients and store in an airtight container for quick access.

Use a tofu press: A tofu press will quickly remove excess water, making the tofu firmer and easier to fry.

Preheat the oil: Start heating the oil while you prepare the tofu to save time.

Double the recipe: Make extra and freeze the coated tofu strips for a quick meal later.

Use a deep fryer: A deep fryer can cook multiple tofu strips at once, speeding up the frying process.